<< I think you're overstating the power of the federal government here.
Goals 2000 is nothing but show. Even most states have very little power
compared to local school districts. And districts can in fact be quite
different from each other. >>

Cathy, I don't know about your state, but here in Illinois, and in many of
the states I have heard about, there is a big movement toward outcomes-based
education. Many of the school districts in Illinois that I am familiar with
are changing radically due to the State Board of Education's "IGAP" (Illinois
Goals Assessment Program). You wouldn't believe how many school hours are
now spent on assessments. Where do you suppose the states are getting this
idea? From the Goals 2000 and similar federal programs. What is driving the
change? Federal dollars. States that comply will get money.

Local school districts traditionally have had control over their schools, but
I am afraid that is changing rather quickly. And I am fearful, as Scott Gray
is, that the long arm of the federal government will try to reach into the
private school domain if it is given the opportunity.